And What Dust Mask Protects Against Silica Dust?
Why is silica dust a big deal when cutting masonry like stone or brick?
To put it bluntly, silica dust will get into your lungs and never leave. From your lungs the dust can agitate your kidneys, your heart, and other parts of your body. It’s important to protect yourself from silica dust when cutting any and all types of masonry products.
You should wet-cut whenever possible. Even with wet cutting, some dust escapes into the air. You should wear a dust mask even when cutting with water.
Using proper dust protection can protect you from airborne dust. Protecting yourself from airborne dust will protect you from an early, painful death. Protect yourself from silica dust.
Any mask is better than nothing. But airborne silica can be small. Wearing a bandana or a t-shirt over your face isn’t really providing much protection.
Those cheap, disposable paper dust masks are kind of the next step up. They might provide some protection, but they’re not designed for dust at this level. Repeat, they are not for use against silica.
Here are a few of my favorite dust masks designed to protect against silica when worn properly.
Face Wrap Masks
These masks, usually made from neoprene, are designed for comfort and (if you buy the right ones) will protect against silica dust.
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3sZlErn
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/38sNMcW
Respirator Style Masks
Generally speaking, a respirator style mask will provide a better fit. A better fit will protect against dust sneaking past your filters and into your lungs.
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2Y77OaR
3M is among the top names in respirators. They offer lots of products that fit the bill.
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3BuVoZ4
Yigsm. I’ll call this generic. Still works.
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3BGI6sz
Another kind of Respirator
These respirator masks use smaller filters for a more compact design.
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3DARejV
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3BrPIid
Professional Heavy Duty Protection
If you’re cutting a lot of masonry, I mean like all-day exposure, you should consider some real protection. This Parcil industrial dust mask and face shield will protect you from dust and protect your eyes.
Buy on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3DHLZ2f
Choose a mask that will work for you. I recommend keeping it in a bag or case if it doesn’t come with one. Use an old pillowcase or something. Do your research. This blog is not responsible for you buying the wrong kind of mask.